I’m proud to bring you the CD by the band Wicked Saints. They are a California based Americana Rock group that recently released their new album, Don’t Kill The Blackbird. I was introduced to the band’s music via the website http://www.airplaydirect.com

As a radio DJ that hosts a show focusing on Americana, Blues, Folk, Country, and Sothern Rock, they were a band that fit perfectly into the format of the show. I’m proud to now give you my written analysis of the aforementioned record.

The record starts out with the very Neil Young sounding track, “Hello.” it’s a well crafted tune with some trippy stylings in the middle of the tune. The title track is next and really showcases what this band is about. The songwriting is top notch, vocals expressive, bass rides along nice with the guitars. Vocalist Brent Michelle adds beautiful female vocals that work perfectly to add that extra something special. “Shut it Down” starts with some cool muted banjo playing before singer Paul McCarty tells you the story of a meeting gone wrong via Craigslist. This one has an almost America or Eagles vibe to it. I could totally see Joe Walsh digging this tune.

On the tune “Anything Could Happen”, singer McCarty channels his inner Springsteen to give us a sparse tune that works with the bass and accordion to build the vibe of the song. “Just Like Me” is classic Americana music in every sense. It’s the story of life’s travels and struggles. It’s the story of looking out the car window and seeing miles of road in front of you. ‘I Wish I’d Never” is the story of life’s regrets that you can never get back. The tune “Pavan” end the record on a softer note. It has that Dan Fogelberg vibe to it.

Wicked Saints have written an extremely likeable record here. It’s rife with tunes of struggle, life, regret, and triumph. The playing is diverse, competent, and flows perfectly from song to song. The production is crisp and solid. It sounds really great played on both home speakers and headphones. The only bad thing I can say here is that there were a couple tunes that I didn’t connect to but that’s not to say that others won’t.

For those that are fans of Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, The Eagles, The Band, America, or Dan Fogelberg, this will be right up your alley. Wicked Saints are a great act that should definitely be getting much more recognition from this. Get this CD and help the band reach that next level.

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